Fiona Murphy

About

Fiona Murphy is a clinically informed child advocate with a distinguished dual background as an independent social worker and in applied psychology. With over 15 years' experience spanning frontline practice, service leadership and therapeutic intervention, she brings exceptional depth to supporting children's rights and wellbeing within care and justice systems.

CORU registered and academically accomplished, Fiona holds a BA (Hons) in Psychology from University College Dublin (First Class), an MSc in Applied Psychology from Trinity College Dublin (Distinction) and a BA (Hons) in Social Work from Robert Gordon University (First Class). She has also completed a Professional Diploma in Intermediary Studies at the University of Limerick, qualifying her as a Registered Intermediary for the Department of Justice to support vulnerable children and adults in complex legal proceedings.

Fiona's portfolio spans child protection, family support and youth justice, including multiple leadership roles managing Tusla-funded child and family support services. She was instrumental in establishing Ireland's first Bail Supervision Scheme — an innovative, cross-agency programme reducing youth offending and custodial sentences — recognised with national and international awards, including a Civil Service Excellence & Innovation Award and an International Corrections & Prisons Association Community Corrections Award.

Trained in Multisystemic Therapy and systemic supervision, Fiona's practice is rooted in evidence-based models, trauma-responsive care and therapeutic social work. Known for her calm, reflective style, she integrates psychological insight with statutory and legal frameworks. A respected contributor to national and international dialogue, she has delivered guest lectures, presented at conferences, and served as a State Board Member of the Oberstown Children Detention Campus. Her publications include guidance on family contact and amplifying the voice of the child in care.

As an affiliate of Gallore, Fiona aligns with the organisation's values of clinical excellence, ethical integrity and robust, child-centred representation, advancing best practice through a multidisciplinary, rights-based approach that keeps children's voices central to decision-making.